Portrait of Carl XI 1643 - 1698

This portrait of Carl XI, painted by Swedish artist David Ehrenstrahl, showcases the king in full regalia. The painting's formal composition and dramatic lighting are characteristic of the Baroque era, highlighting the grandeur and power of the monarch. Ehrenstrahl, a court painter, utilized a combination of realism and idealism in this work, capturing Carl XI's likeness while emphasizing his authority and regal presence. The inclusion of a lion, symbolizing strength and courage, further reinforces the king's position as a powerful ruler. This painting is now housed in the Statens Museum for Kunst in Denmark.